Are these buffer/polishers a no-no?

[SonOfOC]

When I see these, I'm obligated to post this:

[fightnews]

if you're only going to use a DA once a year or so and don't want to spend (or don't have) a lot of money then get the HF DA and purchase the backing plate and pads here at AG, and if money is not an issue then get the GG6 (worth every penny) instead..

I had the harbor frieght da when I started the backing plate is fine. I bought the miguiars backing plate for it thinking it was going to make it better. There was absolutely no difference at all. Its the same backing plate with a different sticker

[fightnews]

As others have said, don't bother. Yes, you could use one on older single stage paint with decent results. But it won't do much with modern clear coats. Plus, they're harder to control than an average DA.

When buying a polisher, even as a weekend warrior working on your own car only, factor in that you'll probably keep the polisher a long time. I bought a PC7424 back in 2002 and it's still going strong. I paid $120 for it back then (no small chunk of change at the time) but that works out to a mere $8 a year. And believe me, you'll be using it more than you think.

Buy once, cry once, I say. If you can afford it, I'd suggest a Griots GG6. Lifetime warranty and good power for a DA.

i agree with this the gg6 is worth the extra money plus you can probably get a nice starter kit right here at autogeek

[Eldorado2k]

I had the harbor frieght da when I started the backing plate is fine. I bought the miguiars backing plate for it thinking it was going to make it better. There was absolutely no difference at all. Its the same backing plate with a different sticker

There’s a major difference in the velcro. The HF backing plate has velcro that sticks so hard you’ll probably delaminate your 6” pads trying to remove them after a few times. It’s like 1 step under crazy glue. That’s not the case with the Meguiars or any other backing plate.

Besides why would you want to work that machine with a 6” plate & pads when 5” pads not only give you better access, but the machine will provide better power with them vs. having to spin 6” pads.

Believe me, I have the HF backing plate and thought it would be useful for spin drying my large LC Orbitals and Rupes pads after washing them... I quickly found out I was close to delaminating all of them the 1st time I tried.

[dlc95]

There’s a major difference in the velcro. The HF backing plate has velcro that sticks so hard you’ll probably delaminate your 6” pads trying to remove them after a few times. It’s like 1 step under crazy glue. That’s not the case with the Meguiars or any other backing plate.

Besides why would you want to work that machine with a 6” plate & pads when 5” pads not only give you better access, but the machine will provide better power with them vs. having to spin 6” pads.

Believe me, I have the HF backing plate and thought it would be useful for spin drying my large LC Orbitals and Rupes pads after washing them... I quickly found out I was close to delaminating all of them the 1st time I tried.

The HF plate also features. The classic "J" hooks, where the Meguiar's uses micro hooks.

[BillE]

Due to the fact that we have diverged from the OP's original question...a couple of years back, Mike Stoops (over at MOL) did a great write up on the various types of 'velcro' backing plates. VERY informative. Sorry don't have link.

Bill

[RTexasF]

There is one sold here that is similar in size & shape but it is a DA. I would buy the Griot's and be done with it but here's information on the Mother's offering:

https://www.autogeek.net/mothers-wax...-polisher.html

I can see where it would be okay for large flat areas but useless for smaller more intricate panels.

[Eldorado2k]

The HF plate also features. The classic "J" hooks, where the Meguiar's uses micro hooks.

That must be it... Those J hooks have insane grip! It’s like pulling teeth. Lol.

[VISITOR]

I had the harbor frieght da when I started the backing plate is fine. I bought the miguiars backing plate for it thinking it was going to make it better. There was absolutely no difference at all. Its the same backing plate with a different sticker

the HF DA comes with a 6" backing plate and i would ditch it and replace it with a 5" instead (one below) so you can use 5.5" pads...

https://www.autogeek.net/griots-5-in...ted-plate.html

[Bobbykart]

I used these in the 80's, times have changed. Antiques now😬